If you haven't already, its time to get your e-commerce holiday plan in order because in a blink of an eye, you'll be too late! These are preliminary steps you can take in order to have a successful holiday season for your online store.
Shopping Trends to Consider
- Consumers are skimping on certain items in order to spluge on a few pricier favorites - be sure to tout what you have that's unique or affordable.
- They’re planning more in advance to save on gas money - get the word out about your store.
- People are researching online and purchasing offline - make sure your prices are competitive and maybe offer free shipping.
- E-tailers are offering guaranteed delivery dates during the holiday season - add information in your "about" section on your Holiday ordering deadlines.
- comScore Reports $29.1 Billion in U.S. Retail E-Commerce Spending for Full November-December 2009 Holiday Season, Up 4 Percent vs. Year Ago
What's The Plan?
- Take advantage of your social networks and post reminders about Holiday shopping at your store
- Ask your friends and fans to post your store on their website and profiles to help spread the word
- Spruce up your store with a festive banner, holiday colors, cheerful descriptions
- Consider announcing specials and sales the day before strategic dates (see below)
- To help your shoppers find things easily create gift bundles or gift categories (for him, for her, by price, stocking stuffers, etc.)
Mark Your Calendars!
These are said to be the busiest shopping days for 2010. Structure your holiday plan around these days by including specials and discounts with deadlines to capitalize on the feeding frenzy.
- November 26 is Black Friday
- November 29 is Cyber Monday
- December 13 is Green Monday...in 2009, $854 million was spent in online sales.
Final Thoughts
- Get the word out about your shop now.
- Make it easy for your customers to shop.
- Enhance your site design with holiday flair.
- Make potential buyers comfortable about your business.
- Provide specific delivery lead times and shipping discounts.
- Use holiday specials to convert shoppers to buyers.
Strategy is everything during this super competitive time of the year. Take this extra time to get organized and make this your most lucrative holiday season ever.
